As of this writing, there are currently no rookies averaging 10 points per game. Or even nine, if we want to be really loud. That could be seen as confirmation that the 2024 draft class was disappointing.

But let’s hold on a little longer.

First, there’s the obvious counterargument: the sample size is ridiculously small. We are four games into the season. Things can change, and quite quickly.

But even if we were seventy games into the season, it’s crucial to remember that this class was always billed as a role-playing game. There was never much expectation that a large group of players would suddenly explode onto the scene and challenge the 1984 class in terms of quality.

If this rookie class is to be judged, it should be done in the right light.

The vast majority of players selected in June were either long-term prospects or guys who had been in the NCAA for so long; scouts knew who they were and were well aware of why they were still hanging around.

Zaccharie Risacher and Alexandre Sarr will play better as the season progresses, but both are still half a decade removed from their respective firsts. Many players find themselves in similar situations.

It’s also worth noting that using draft slots as a kind of justification for criticism is highly problematic. The overall quality of the class would always rank in the bottom half of all classes in NBA history.

Simply put, being disappointed in a draft class that wasn’t expected to load seems…pointless. It also largely ignores the value of finding players who can still help teams get better. Can we really sit here and claim that Dalton Knecht won’t improve the Lakers in the long run?

In recent years, we’ve seen the value of quality role players, especially in the postseason, who provide consistent production despite not being stars.

So far, the class of 2024 appears to have at least enough players of that caliber. And really, if two handfuls of guys get to have a 10-year career, which certainly seems feasible, then it’s hard to find anything to be disappointed about, at least given the initial expectations.

Unless otherwise stated, all statistics are via NBA.com, PBPStats, Cleaning the glass or Basketball reference. All salary information via Spotrac. All opportunities thanks to FanDuel Sportsbook.

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